The north Londoners remain hopeful of a straight £10m cash deal for Cech but, while Chelsea are ready to respect the wishes of one of their modern-day legends, Mourinho has made it clear publicly that he does not want to sell him to a direct rival.

Cech, 33, is keen to move to Arsenal, which would allow him to extend his 11-year stay in London, and Wenger has made him his top transfer priority.

Elsewhere, the Gunners are still in the hunt for Southampton midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin but have baulked at Saints' £25m asking price.